Special input tools for entering answers in CIMT Interactive Resources

NOTE: The resources on this page require Flash Player 6 or above. If you do not already have this program, it will start downloading. When it asks you if you want to install the flash player, click "yes" - you will only need to do this once. To download the player manually, visit the download page.

In the on-line mathematical tests and activities provided by the CIMT, you often need to answer a question with a fraction, algebra expression or equation. These types of answer can not be entered in a normal input box, so we have created a different way of entering these answers.

If you are familiar with MathType or Equation Editor then you should pick up the idea fairly quickly.

The sections below introduce the editors, and you can practice using the example editor in each section.
After the introductions there is a link to another page where you can test your skill with the editors.
IMPORTANT NOTE: To input a multiplication symbol or divsion symbol you need to type * for a × and / for a ÷.

You need to upgrade your Flash Player Go to http://www.adobe.com/go/getflashplayer.

The Polynomial Editor This editor will allow you to enter expressions which include powers (e.g. 3x² - 2x³). When you want to put a power in your expression, you need to use the power button; - the first click moves the cursor upwards so you can enter the power - a second click of the power button will return the cursor to the normal position You can move around what you have typed using the left and right keys. Practice using the editor by entering some different expressions.

You need to upgrade your Flash Player Go to http://www.adobe.com/go/getflashplayer.

The Fraction Editor On the left is an editor will allow you to enter fractions, decimals or percentages. Entering a decimal or percentage is easy - simply click in the box and type it as you normally would. If you want to enter a fraction, you need to use the fraction button; - the first click draws a fraction line and moves the cursor to the top (numerator) - after entering the numerator, click the button again to edit the bottom (denominator) - the third click will complete the fraction and return the cursor to the normal position You can move around what you have typed using the left and right keys.

You need to upgrade your Flash Player Go to http://www.adobe.com/go/getflashplayer.

The Equation Editor This editor works in the same way as the other two but it has more features. As well as fractions and powers, there is a button to allow you to enter square roots. There is also a button to enter the ± symbol which doesn't appear on your keyboard. If you want to enter a square root, you need to use the root button; - the first click draws the start of the square root and places the cursor inside - the inside of the root can be entered and can include fractions and powers - a second click of the root button return the cursor to the normal position This editor will allow you to create quite complex expressions, like those on the left.

If you would like to test your skill at using the editors, please go to this page.